Setting the scene: The Buffaloes bounced back from their first loss by defeating Boerne Champion 34-20 behind an offense that produced 470 yards and a defense that forced three turnovers. Quarterback J.J. Elkins was 16 of 20 for 236 yards and three touchdowns, with his favorite target being Chase Foreman (8 for 144 yards and a TD).

Key to victory: Rediscover early-season defensive form. The Buffaloes allowed 21 points — 4.2 per game — and had three shutouts in their first five games. In the last three games, they've allowed 20.6 per contest.

Setting the scene: Like Clemens, the Mules responded well to their first district loss, scoring the first 49 points en route to a 49-20 win over Lockhart. Quarterback Dalton Banks threw for two touchdowns and ran for one, and tailback Byron Proctor rushed for two scores.

Key to victory: Protect the quarterback. With Clemens' defensive ends/twins Kaleb and Kolin Hill combining for 19 sacks, it will be imperative that Banks spends more time on his feet than on his back.